South Holland cyclists take part in challenge

Peter Hull only started cycling about nine months ago but he loves it so much he plans to spend four days in the saddle in the summer.

Peter, who runs Nursery Fresh Plants at Pinchbeck, is taking part in the London to Paris cycle challenge to raise money for Action Medical Research.

The motivation behind the 300 or so mile ride is Peter’s wife Tracy, who is chairman of the local committee for the charity which carries out vital medical research.

Peter is riding with two South Holland cyclists – Katie Butler from Donington and Sarah Grundy of Spalding – both of whom are on the local committee.

Peter said: “We are trying to raise about £4,500, or £1,500 each. I have never cycled that far before. I only started cycling properly about nine months ago and I love it.”

The cyclists are riding about 100 miles a week and Katie and Peter were due to take part in the Peterborough 100 at the weekend as part of their training, an event that was also raising money for Action Medical Research.

Peter estimates the ride from London to Paris is about 300 miles over four days. He says they are due to arrive the day before the Tour de France reaches the city, so they are all looking forward to the chance to sit down and spectate for a change, particularly if a British cyclist wins again.

Challenge Events manager at Action Medical Research Oly Watts said: “The event is a must for any cycling enthusiasts with the added bonus of catching the finale of the 2013 Tour de France.”